As we approach the festive season, I’d like to extend my warmest wishes to all Royal Geelong Yacht Club members and their families for a joyous Christmas and a fantastic New Year. This is a time to reflect, celebrate, and look forward to the exciting year ahead.

Mark Your Calendars
Don’t forget to join us for the RGYC New Year’s Eve Party—it’s sure to be a great night to welcome 2025 together!

A Big Year Ahead
2025 promises to be a milestone year for our Club:

  • The Festival of Sails is tracking towards its biggest participation yet, promising an extraordinary celebration of sailing. If you’re planning to represent RGYC, don’t forget to get your entries in—this is your chance to be part of an iconic event. We’re also calling for volunteers to help make it a success. Your support is vital!
  • Non-aggregate sailing in January: Before the Festival of Sails, the Club will host non-aggregate racing. We’re calling for both competitors and race management to get involved—let’s keep the momentum going into the new year!
  • The opening of the new Sailing Centre will mark a significant step forward, paving the way for the future of our membership and sailing community.
  • Our sail racing season continues, and we wish all competitors representing RGYC the very best in their events:
    • Toby Swanson and his crew on Dark and Stormy in the Sydney to Hobart.
    • Extasea, skippered this year by Dusty Popp and crew, also in the Sydney to Hobart.
    • Our talented young Cadet sailors and their dedicated parents heading to Port Lincoln on Boxing Day for the Cadet National Championships.
    • And to all our sailors competing in events this festive season—go well!

A Heartfelt Thank You
A huge thank you to our dedicated RGYC staff, whose hard work ensures our Club runs smoothly. Special thanks to Nigel, Katie, Jeremy, and the entire team for their commitment and sacrifice, often giving up time with their own families to ensure we enjoy the Club’s hospitality and services. If you see them over the holidays, please take a moment to wish them a Merry Christmas or offer a heartfelt ‘Thank You’ for their efforts.

On behalf of the Board and myself, thank you all for your continued passion, dedication, and support of the RGYC. Here’s to a wonderful Christmas and a successful 2025 filled with good health, happiness, and fair winds.

Warm regards,
Paul Buchholz
Commodore, Royal Geelong Yacht Club